James Marsden Confirmed As Will Ferrell’s Rival In ‘Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues’

James Marsden has been confirmed to star opposite Will Ferrell in the new Anchorman sequel, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues. Deadline reports that while the specific details of the plot are still being kept secret, Marsden is set to play a nemesis anchorman to rival Ferrell’s Ron Burgundy.

James Marsden is perhaps best known for his role as Scott “Cyclops” Summers in the X-Men film franchise. Marsden has had some, if limited experience in comedy, most recently starring opposite Tina Fey as Liz Lemon’s partner, Criss in NBC’s 30 Rock. Cinemablend predicts “Will Ferrell will probably bury Marsden when it comes to improv.”

Screencrush speculates the news of Marsden’s character in the rival position makes it unlikely that Vince Vaughan and Luke Wilson, who played rival anchors in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, will appear in the Anchorman sequel. Neither Vaughan nor Wilson have been confirmed for the new movie.

Last month, Christina Applegate tweeted her character, Kristen Wiig, will return for Anchorman 2, and Deadline confirms Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, and David Koechner will also be reprising their roles. Last week, Sky News reported that veteran English actor, Terence Stamp has been approached to play a “Rupert Murdoch type figure” in Anchorman 2. Reports have stated Stamp has expressed interest in the role though nothing official has been confirmed.